Oh Shenandoah

My parents, who did not grow up in the United States, felt it was important for their children to understand and appreciate being American. Growing up, they would take us to visit U.S. historical places, read books about famous American stories and fables, watch movies and documentaries about U.S. history and even listen to traditional American folk songs and music. As a child, one of our favorite music albums featuring American folk music was by Wee Sing. It wasn't until I started traveling around  the country that I learned the significance and back story for many of our favorite childhood songs.

When I visited the Shenandoah National Park a few years ago, I couldn't help but recall one of the folk songs connected to this region:

Oh Shenandoah,
I long to see you,
And hear your rolling river,
Oh Shenandoah,
I long to see you,
Away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.

Oh Shenandoah,
I love your daughter
Away, you rolling river.
For her I'd cross,
Your roaming waters.
Away, I'm bound away,
Cross the wide Missouri. 

'Tis seven years since last I've seen you,
And hear your rolling river,
'Tis seven years since last I've seen you,
Away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri.

Oh Shenandoah,
I long to see you,
And hear your rolling river,
Oh Shenandoah,
I long to see you,
Away, we're bound away
Across the wide Missouri. 

According to historians, while many in Virginia presumed that the song was referencing the Shenandoah Valley or River, it was actually in reference to an native American chief. Regardless of its basis, one can't deny that the majestic vista of the Shenandoah Valley and its Blue Ridge Mountains could inspire songs in its tribute.